For those looking for alternative options for the treatment of menstruation, herbs are becoming an increasingly popular natural treatment for common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as cramping and bloating. Chinese herbs have been touted as being effective in treating many menstruation problems, such as irregular menstruation, as well as alleviating common menstrual symptoms, such as menstrual cramps. But how exactly do herbs treat menstruation and what types of herbs work best in treating different menstruation problems and menstruation symptoms?

How Do Herbs Work?

Herbs contain healing properties that help to alleviate a variety of health problems. Because herbs work to both prevent and treat a variety of illnesses, diseases and conditions, they treat an individual's overall physical and emotional health and not just a specific symptom.

As such, herbs work best when they form part of a holistic treatment plan, including a healthy diet and a balanced fitness program.

What Can Herbs Treat?

In addition to treating menstruation problems, herbs can also be used to prevent and treat a variety of problems, including the following:

depression

stress

insomnia

headache

muscle tension and pain

anxiety

How Do Herbs Help to Treat Menstruation Problems and Menstruation Symptoms?

Specific herbs are used to treat different menstruation problems.

For example the following menstrual irregularities and menstrual symptoms can be treated using the following herbs:

menstrual cramps: herbs such as false unicorn root and cramp bark can help alleviate cramps associated with PMS and therefore can bring PMS relief. Red raspberry is another herb that can help bring menstrual cramp relief. Such herbs can be particularly helpful for women who suffer from dysmenorrhea. Jatamansi is another herb that is especially helpful for this condition.

heavy periods: yarrow, nettles and shepherd's purse help to reduce heavy bleeding by directing the flow of blood away from the pelvis. Women who suffer from chronically heavy menstruation, known as menorrhagia, can particularly benefit from the healing properties of such herbs.

irregular periods: for women who experience irregular periods, a condition whose medical name is oligomenorrhea, there are a variety of Chinese herbs which can help to regulate their menstruation cycle. Such herbs include jatamansi, blue cohosh, ginger and skullcap. Parsley can also stimulate irregular or absent periods.

How to Take Herbs

In order to try and prevent the above menstrual symptoms and menstrual irregularities, it is advised that herbs be taken one week prior to the onset of menstruation. This is due to the fact that this is the time when hormone levels in the body begin to surge.

Because it can take three months for a woman to notice significant results in the improvement of her menstrual problems and menstrual symptoms, it is advised that she take such menstrual herb treatment for a sustained period of time.

You should also always consult with your doctor before taking any herbs for menstrual relief.